MERCEDES BENZ GLC Class Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

When BMW introduced the X3 in 2003, Mercedes-Benz didn't have anything to fight against it in the compact luxury crossover segment, but its answer came five years later when it unveiled the GLK.

In 2015, the three-pointed-star brand decided to change the naming system of its entire SUV stable. Thus, the GLK's successor received the GLC name when it appeared on the market. Fast forward to 2022, and the third generation of Mercedes-Benz's luxury crossover made its debut in the summer of 2022. It was built on top of the same MRA platform as the C-Class with independent suspension in all corners.

The 2022 GLC shared the same design language with the C-Class, featuring similar swept-back headlights with an angular inner side and rounded, raised outer side. In addition, the front fascia wore a broad grille fitted with a mesh and a chromed horizontal slat that supported the center-mounted three-pointed-star badge. From its profile, the crossover sported an ascending beltline ended to the raked-forward D-pillars, while the B- and C- posts were blacked-out.

The car was fitted with a luxurious yet sporty interior, and the carmaker offered high-bolstered seats as an option. For the dashboard, Mercedes-Benz installed a 12.3" screen for the instrument panel, while atop the center stack, it mounted a second, 11.9" touch-screen. In addition, a color head-up display was offered as an option. Furthermore, it was fitted with the Mercedes me App that could connect to Android or Apple devices. Moreover, the integrated OTA update systems allowed streaming via the "Online Music" service.

For the drivetrain, the 2022 GLC featured only electrified powertrains with an integrated starter-generator (ISG) on a 48-volt architecture. The car came fitted exclusively with a nine-speed automatic gearbox that ensured smooth gear changes regardless of the engine version.

The compact-sized SUV from Mercedes-Benz is offered either as an SUV-coupe or as a regular SUV. The 2019 facelift version shows new upgrades both aesthetically and technically.

On the outside, one can see the main differences on the front fascia, where the facelifted version has a different design, with bigger and better-contoured LED headlights, while full LED tail lamps are standard on the entire range. Newly designed 18 and 19 inch wheels and minor changes were made so the buyers will see why they are paying more.

The biggest changes are on the inside. Optional, the GLC can be ordered with a 12.3 inches display in the dashboard. The center display, with a floating design, has a 10.25-inch size and HD resolution. The driver can command the infotainment system in five different ways. Either via touch-control on the multimedia display, the touch-control buttons from the steering wheel, multifunction display, multifunction touchpad on the center console and gesture control. Last but not least, it can be commanded via voice control by saying “Hey Mercedes”.

Mercedes-Benz offers choices of gasoline and diesel engines, with four cylinders. The gasoline engines are offered with a 48-volt architecture and a belt-driven starter-alternator, which helps to lower the fuel consumption. The facelifted GLC comes with a 9-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive for the entire range.

In 2015 Mercedes-Benz launched the second generation of its compact class SUV. The carmaker re-badged the GLK as a GLC, but the differences are bigger than a name change. The GLC represents a departure from its ancestor – the G-Class - and adds more comfort and better on-road capabilities.

The interior has been reworked and now offers a better atmosphere, which is a brand hallmark, courtesy of high-class materials, such as nappa leather or open-pore wood trim. Also, there is substantially more luggage space in the trunk. A large panoramic glass roof is optionally offered to enhance the light and improve the airy feel.

All models comply with the EU6 emissions as standard. With the GLC 350 e 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz is offering a plug-in hybrid that combines the merits of all-wheel-drive with the lowest fuel consumption. Its performance is not affected since it can reach a top speed of 235 kph (146 mph) with a best-in-class system output of 320 hp.

The semi-electric vehicle has a range of 35 km (21 miles) in zero-emission all-electric mode, accelerating from 0 to 100 kph (0-62 mph) in 5.9 seconds if necessary, courtesy of the boost function. Like its plug-in big brother, the S-Class, the GLC 350 e 4MATIC offers all the characteristic comfort and efficiency systems found on the regular GLC.